#Canada #Winnipeg #Social Impact #Manitobah #Indigenous Art

Manitobah's Impact Report for 2024: Celebrating Progress

Manitobah, an Indigenous-rooted brand with a mission to uplift Indigenous communities, has recently unveiled its 2024 Social Impact Report. This report serves as a testament to the brand's collective efforts to foster positive change within Indigenous populations, marking significant milestones and achievements over the past year.

The Four Impact Pillars

At the core of Manitobah’s initiatives are four key pillars that guide their strategy: Education for Change, Trade for Community, Art in Action, and Sovereignty through Leadership. Each pillar addresses essential aspects of community support, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment.

Education for Change

The Manitobah Storyboot School has made waves since its inception, proudly graduating 1,759 individuals who have gained crucial skills in traditional moccasin and mukluk-making. This program offers workshops that not only teach Indigenous students and allies the intricacies of these crafts but also serve as a bridge to cultural heritage, instilling pride and knowledge in traditional practices.

Trade for Community

Manitobah has contributed over $1 million to Indigenous artists through its Indigenous Market. This marketplace is a platform specifically designed to connect Indigenous artisans with a broader audience, enabling them to share their stories and authentic crafts. Impressively, 100% of the profits generated from the market go directly to the artists, showcasing a commitment to equitable trade. In 2024 alone, the market achieved sales of $200,000, solidifying its role in community support.

Art in Action

Manitobah believes in the transformative power of art. Since 2020, the brand has allocated over $440,000 to collaborating artists, breathing life into collaborative projects that honor Indigenous creativity. Each year, Manitobah highlights new artists, cultivating a platform where unique designs are celebrated, helping to sustain traditions and change lives.

Sovereignty Through Leadership

Notably, Manitobah achieved B Corp certification with an impressive score of 89.9 on its initial assessment. This accomplishment demonstrates the brand's commitment to social and environmental standards, using the B Impact Assessment as a framework for continuous improvement. By emphasizing Indigenous values in its operations, Manitobah champions economic independence while maintaining high standards in craftsmanship and product excellence.

Voices of Change

Daman Morissette, vice president of social impact at Manitobah, expressed pride in the achievements made in 2024. He stated, “Our mission goes beyond profit; we strive to create pathways for Indigenous voices to be recognized and empowered. Initiatives like the Storyboot School and Indigenous Market showcase our dedication to this vision.”

A Commitment to Progress

Manitobah's focus on improving the livelihoods of Indigenous artisans is evident in every product, echoing their philosophy of “walking together, making a difference!” As the brand moves forward through 2025, it remains dedicated to refining its support for Indigenous creators and working towards sustainable solutions that benefit the community.

About Manitobah

Founded in 1997 in Winnipeg by Métis founder Sean McCormick, Manitobah has carved a niche in the footwear market with its unique offerings that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Each product reflects a commitment not only to quality but to honoring the cultural narratives and artistry of Indigenous people across North America. For more information about their offerings and social initiatives, visit www.manitobah.com.